CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — As the new year begins, many people resolve to save money, eat healthier, exercise more and lose weight. While weight-loss resolutions are common, a local dietitian says success often depends on how goals are set.
Nicole O’Neill, a dietitian with OSF HealthCare, encourages people to break big resolutions into smaller, achievable steps using SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound.
“Big-picture resolutions like losing weight are fine,” O’Neill says, “but they need clear steps. Otherwise, they’re hard to stick with.”
O’Neill notes that New Year’s resolutions work for some people but not others, depending on factors like stress, sleep, pain and hormones. Instead of drastic changes, she recommends small adjustments, such as cooking at home more often, drinking more water or adding fruits and vegetables.
“There’s no magic formula,” O’Neill says. “Start with one small change and let it build.”
For those still struggling, she suggests talking with a health care provider about additional options, including counseling or medication management.
Read the full OSF press release here.